JP6975092B2 - Wireless inductive power transfer - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to inductive power transfer, and is not particularly limited, but relates to an inductive power transmission system according to the Qi wireless power transfer standard.

The number and types of portable devices and mobile devices in practical use have skyrocketed over the last decade. For example, the use of mobile phones, tablets, media players, etc. has become universal. Such devices are usually powered by a built-in battery, and typical usage scenarios often require battery charging or direct wired power supply of the device from an external power source.

Most of today's systems require wiring and / or obvious electrical contact to be powered by an external power source. However, this is rather impractical and requires the user to physically insert the connector or otherwise establish physical electrical contact. Also, by introducing the length of the conductor, this tends to be inconvenient for the user. Also, power requirements are usually very different, and most devices now have their own dedicated power supply, resulting in a number of different power sources, each dedicated to a particular device, for the average user. .. The use of built-in batteries can avoid the need for a wired connection to a power source during use, but this provides only a partial solution as the batteries require charging (or expensive replacement). The use of batteries can also significantly increase the weight of the device, as well as the potential cost and size.

In order to provide a significantly improved user experience, the use of wireless power feeding, in which power is induced and transmitted from the transmit coil in the power transmitter device to the receive coil in the individual device, has been advocated.

Power transfer by magnetic induction is a well-known concept often applied to transformers in which the primary transmit coil and the secondary receive coil are tightly coupled. By separating the primary transmit coil and the secondary receive coil between the two devices, wireless power transfer between the devices based on the principle of a loosely coupled transformer becomes possible.

Such a configuration allows wireless power transfer to the device without the need to establish conductors or physical electrical connections. In practice, this allows the device to be charged or externally powered by simply placing it near or above the transmit coil. For example, a power transfer device may have a horizontal surface on which the device can simply be placed for power supply.

Moreover, such wireless power transfer configurations may be suitably designed so that the power transmitting device can be used with some type of power receiving device. In particular, a wireless power transmission standard called the Qi standard has been established, and further development is still being achieved. The Qi standard does not require the power transmitting devices corresponding to the standard to be of the same manufacturer or dedicated to each other, and allows them to be used together with power receiving devices corresponding to the Qi standard as well. The Qi standard also includes some features that allow the operation to be adapted to a particular power receiving device (eg, depending on a particular power drain).

The Qi standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium, more information can be found, for example on its website http://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/index.html, and in particular the specified standards can be found. ..

The Qi wireless power supply standard indicates that the power transmitter must be able to supply the guaranteed power that is in the power receiver. The specific power level required depends on the design of the power receiver. To determine the guaranteed power, a set of test power receivers and load conditions is defined, which represent the guaranteed power for each condition.

Qi originally defines wireless power transfer for low power devices that are considered as devices with a power drain of less than 5W. Systems within the scope of the Qi standard transmit power from a power transmitter to a power receiver using inductive coupling between two planar coils. The distance between the two coils is typically 5 mm. This range can be extended to at least 40 mm.

However, efforts are being made to increase the available power, in particular the Qi standard is being extended to medium power devices with power drains higher than 5W.

The Qi standard defines various technical requirements, parameters, and operating procedures that compatible devices must meet.

Communication The Qi standard supports communication from the power receiver to the power transmitter, which allows the power receiver to provide information that may allow the power transmitter to be adapted to a particular power receiver. do. Current standards specify a one-way communication link from a power receiver to a power transmitter, and the approach is based on the principle that the power receiver is the control element. In order to prepare and control the power transmission between the power transmitter and the power receiver, the power receiver explicitly transmits information to the power transmitter.

One-way communication is achieved by performing load modulation that modulates the power signal by changing the load that the power receiver applies to the secondary receive coil. The power transmitter can detect and decode (demodulate) the resulting changes in electrical characteristics (eg, fluctuations in current draw).

Therefore, in the physical layer, the communication channel from the power receiver to the power transmitter uses the power signal as a data carrier. The power receiver modulates the load, which is detected by the amplitude and / or phase change of the transmit coil current or voltage. The data is formatted in bytes and packets.

More information can be found in Part 1, Chapter 6 of the Qi Wireless Power Supply Specification (version 1.0).

Although Qi uses a one-way communication link, it has been proposed to introduce communication from the power transmitter to the power receiver. However, the introduction of such bidirectional links is not trivial and presents a number of challenges and challenges. For example, the system must still be backwards compatible, for example, it must still support power transmitters and receivers that are not bidirectionally communicable. Furthermore, technical constraints on, for example, modulation options, power fluctuations, transmission options, etc. are very strict because they must be harmonized with existing parameters. It is also important to keep costs and complexity low, and it is desirable, for example, to minimize the need for additional hardware, to be easy and reliable to detect, and so on. It is also important that the communication from the power transmitter to the power receiver does not affect, degrade or interfere with the communication from the power receiver to the power transmitter. Furthermore, the most important requirement is that the communication link does not unacceptably reduce the power transfer capacity of the system.

Therefore, improving a power transmission system such as Qi to include two-way communication involves many problems and difficulties.

System Control To control a wireless power transfer system, the Qi standard defines multiple phases or modes to which the system can belong at different points of operation. Further details can be found in Part 1, Chapter 5 of the Qi Wireless Power Supply Specification (version 1.0).

The system may belong to the following phases:

Selection Phase This phase is when the system is not in use, that is, there is no coupling between the power transmitter and the power receiver (ie, no power receiver is located near the power transmitter). This is a typical phase.

In the selection phase, the power transmitter may be in standby mode, but it detects the potential presence of the subject. Similarly, the receiver waits for the presence of a power signal.

Ping Phase If the transmitter detects the potential presence of the subject, eg, by volume change, the system transitions to the Ping phase, where the power transmitter (at least intermittently) supplies the power signal. This power signal is detected by the power receiver, which then sends the first packet to the power transmitter. Specifically, if the power receiver is present on the interface of the power transmitter, the power receiver transmits the first signal strength packet to the power transmitter. The signal strength packet provides an indicator of the degree of coupling between the power transmitting coil and the power receiving coil. The signal strength packet is detected by the power transmitter.

Identification and Configuration Phase The power transmitter and receiver then transition to the identification and configuration phase in which the power receiver transmits at least the identifier and the required power. Information is transmitted in multiple data packets by load modulation. To allow the detection of load modulation, the power transmitter maintains a constant power signal during the identification and configuration phase. Specifically, the power transmitter provides a constant amplitude, frequency, and phase power signal for this purpose (except for the changes caused by load modulation).

In preparation for the actual power transmission, the power receiver may apply a received signal to activate its electronics, but leave the output load unconnected. The power receiver transmits the packet to the power transmitter. These packets may include mandatory messages such as identification and configuration packets, or definition option messages such as extended identification packets or power supply deferral packets.

The power transmitter then configures the power signal according to the information received from the power receiver.

Power transmission phase The system then transitions to a power transmission phase in which the power transmitter supplies the required power signal and the power receiver connects the output load and is powered by the received power.

During this phase, the power receiver monitors the output load conditions and specifically measures the control error between the measured value and the target value at a particular operating point. The power receiver transmits these control errors to the power transmitter by means of control error messages, for example at a minimum rate of 250 msec per unit. It provides the power transmitter with a sign of the continued presence of the power receiver. In addition, control error messages are used by the power transmitter to perform closed-loop power control that tunes the power signal to minimize the reported error. Specifically, when the measured value of the operating point is equal to the target value, the power receiver transmits a control error with a value of zero, and as a result, the power signal does not change. If the power receiver transmits a non-zero control error, the power transmitter adjusts the power signal accordingly.

The system enables efficient setup and operation of power transfer. However, this approach is limited and may not fully tolerate the desired flexibility and support for any function. For example, if the power receiver seeks to obtain more than 5 W of power from the power transmitter, the power transmitter may stop power transmission and provide a bad user experience. Therefore, it is desirable to further develop the Qi standard to provide improved functionality, flexibility, and performance.

In particular, one-way communication can be limited. In practice, this requires that the power transmitter must be able to handle every request of the power receiver, and therefore only receive power to the request parameters that all power transmitters know to be able to handle. Further demands that the aircraft be restricted. Such an approach complicates or impedes further development of function, as it results in a lack of backward compatibility.

However, as mentioned above, the introduction of bidirectional communication into power transfer systems such as Qi systems is complex and has many limitations and many restrictions to ensure efficient power transfer and operation, as well as backward compatibility. Requirements are imposed.

Existing systems offer limited operational flexibility and customization options. In particular, the conformance of operating parameters is limited to a certain set of parameters. For example, the identification and configuration phase allows some operating parameters to be adapted to a particular power receiver. However, the number of applicable parameters is limited. This may limit further development and improvement of the Qi standard. For example, it can prevent the introduction of new (higher) power levels or new communication methods (eg, new bidirectional communication technologies, etc.).

Further improvements to standardized behavior to support such increased flexibility must not only provide efficient behavior that results in reliable and effective behavior, but must also be backward compatible. Therefore, it is very difficult. Specifically, the improved standard must still be able to support equipment operating according to current standards (Qi standard versions 1.0 and 1.1).

This can pose many problems. For example, simply extending the current configuration phase may not be appropriate as it would have to change the behavior of existing equipment. It may also not provide sufficient flexibility in determining further operating parameters. Another problem is that it takes time to perform additional configurations, which may not be available according to current standards.

For example, the Qi standard includes an unused time interval between a configuration packet and a subsequent packet, so a new configuration packet transmitted from the power receiver can be extended to indicate a request for a particular value for a particular operating parameter. It is possible in principle to add the bits defined in. However, the first extension of the Qi standard only allows the power transmitter to provide a single approval. Therefore, a single approval for multiple requests obscures the response of the power transmitter. For example, if the power receiver sends a packet containing a request for power level 30W and a request for dedicated communication mode, the power transmitter will only make such a request if it supports both power level 30W and dedicated communication mode. Cannot be positively approved. If the power transmitter supports only one of the two requests, the power transmitter must reject the request.

In addition, it is highly desirable for the system to maintain low complexity and easy operation. In particular, it is desirable that the complexity of the communication from the power transmitter is low, and in many situations it is desirable that the communication from the power transmitter is limited to 1-bit approval. This makes it possible to carry out communication from the power transmitter to the power receiver very easily. For example, this results in very low data rate requirements, for example allowing detection to be based on very slow power signal fluctuations.

Therefore, introducing communication from a power transmitter to a power receiver, for example, providing data that accurately determines the ability of a power transmitter to support a particular operating parameter, is from the power transmitter to the power receiver. It requires more complex communication protocols and may therefore be impractical in systems such as the Qi system. Moreover, if the communication channel from the power transmitter only supports low data rates, the transmission of such increased information can take a considerable amount of time. Such more complex and time-consuming solutions are less suitable for expanding low-cost, low-power solutions such as Qi. Rather, a solution that supports simpler extensions, such as extensions to the existing Qi specification v1.1, which allows for 10-15W applications would be preferred.

Therefore, an improved power transfer system would be beneficial, especially a system that would allow for improved flexibility, improved backward compatibility, easier execution, and / or improved performance.

Therefore, the present invention attempts to suitably alleviate, alleviate, or eliminate one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks alone or in any combination.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of operating an inductive power transmission system including a power transmitter that generates a wireless power signal for a power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system transmits power based on modulation of the power signal. Supporting bidirectional communication between the machine and the power receiver, the method is to start the required configuration phase by the power receiver sending a signal strength packet to the power transmitter, and the power transmitter and power. The receiver sends a request to perform the required configuration phase in which the first set of power transmission operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver is selected, and the power receiver enters the requested negotiation phase. And the step of approving the request that the power transmitter enters the requested negotiation phase by sending the approval to the power receiver, and the power transmission in response to the reception of the request that enters the requested negotiation phase. A step to enter the negotiation phase in which the machine is requested, a step to enter the negotiation phase in which the power receiver is requested in response to the receipt of approval from the power transmitter, and a negotiation in which the power receiver and the power transmitter are requested. Includes a step of determining a second set of operating parameters by performing the phase.

The present invention may provide an improved power transmission system. In many embodiments, the invention may allow further expansion and development of power transfer systems while maintaining backward compatibility. The present invention allows for a practical approach and may facilitate introduction into existing systems.

Specifically, the Qi system may retain the existing configuration approach based on the identification and configuration phases, while allowing support for new features and operating ranges. This approach may allow expansion to higher power levels or newer communication protocols, for example, while providing backward compatibility with Qi specification version 1.0 or 1.1 devices.

Moreover, this approach can be in good harmony with the design principles and concepts of many existing power transfer systems. For example, this approach follows the design principles and concepts of a Qi power transfer system. For example, this approach may allow the power receiver to remain the main controller. Therefore, introduction into such a system can be facilitated.

This approach may use one-way communication (power receiver to power transmitter) in the mandatory configuration phase and bidirectional (two-way) communication in the requested negotiation phase. This approach can further allow this bidirectional communication to be asymmetric, in particular to allow the data rate from the power transmitter to the power receiver to be significantly lower than from the power receiver to the power transmitter. A relatively uncomplicated power transmitter can be achieved. This can in particular facilitate introduction into existing systems such as Qi systems based solely on communication from the power receiver to the power transmitter.

The requested negotiation phase can be an optional phase. Specifically, the negotiation phase need not be supported by all devices, as power transfer operations can be performed using only the required configuration phases in many embodiments. In some embodiments, it is also an option between devices that support the negotiation phase, and the negotiation phase may only be entered if the power receiver desires. The negotiation phase is optional, but it may be essential for new devices to support it. For example, in order for a power receiver to enter the negotiation phase on request, it may be required that all power transmitters corresponding to the Qi specification version including the negotiation phase support this.

The negotiation phase can also be a configuration phase in the sense that the operating parameters can be selected / determined (such selection / determination is the selection / determination of the parameter values of the parameters and / or whether or not the operating parameters are used (eg,). , Whether or not a particular function applies) will be understood to include both selection / decision). However, in some embodiments, the configuration phase may be based on mandating operating parameters (and values) that must be used with the power transmitter that the power receiver is forced to follow, while the negotiation phase has two. Includes device-to-device negotiation. Therefore, the power transmitter is not forced to comply with the request of the power receiver and can reject them (or suggest other values, for example).

The negotiation phase is typically after the configuration phase and can be used to determine new operating parameters that cannot be determined in the configuration phase. In some scenarios, the negotiation phase may change the parameters already set in the required configuration phase. Therefore, a second set of parameters may contain one or more parameters from the first set. The second set may be separated from the first set. In some embodiments and scenarios, the second set of operating parameters may overlap with the first set of power transfer operating parameters. Therefore, the operating parameters set during the negotiation phase may include the parameters previously set during the configuration phase. Alternatively or additionally, the operating parameters set during the negotiation phase may include parameters that were not set earlier in the configuration phase (and in some cases could not be set during the configuration phase).

Requests that enter the requested negotiation phase may be sent as a dedicated message or, for example, as part of a message that also contains other information. For example, a request to enter the negotiation phase may be sent by setting a bit within a multi-bit where the other bits are used for different actions.

Approval by the power transmitter may be a simple one-bit approval and / or may be part of a message containing other information. In some embodiments, error correction codes (eg, simple iterative codes, etc.) may be used to introduce redundancy into the approval.

According to any feature of the invention, the power receiver sends a request to enter the requested negotiation phase during the power transfer phase.

This may provide a flexible and dynamic approach for optimizing the operation of power transfer systems. This may provide a particularly efficient approach for changing the behavior of the system during active use.

According to any feature of the invention, the power receiver sends a request to enter the requested negotiation phase before entering the power transfer phase.

This may provide an efficient approach for setting up the power transfer phase with improved functionality compared to what can be determined in the configuration phase. This may provide a particularly efficient backward compatibility approach for initializing power transfer.

According to any feature of the invention, the configuration phase comprises a step in which the power receiver determines whether the power transmitter supports the negotiation phase, and the power receiver includes the power transmitter supporting the negotiation phase. Depending on the decision to do so, choose whether to send the request to enter the requested negotiation phase.

This may provide more robust and reliable operation. In many embodiments, this can prevent malfunctions caused by the use of messages that may be unknown to devices that do not support the negotiation phase, and may provide, for example, improved backward compatibility.

According to any feature of the invention, the second set of operating parameters includes communication parameters for communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver.

The present invention provides a particularly efficient backward compatibility approach for improving existing or introducing new capabilities, which allows for improved performance and / or increased functionality.

According to any feature of the invention, the second set of operating parameters includes power level parameters for power transfer from the power transmitter to the power receiver.

The present invention provides a particularly efficient backward compatibility approach for improving the power transfer capacity of a power transfer system, which allows for improved performance and / or increased functionality. For example, the invention may provide a particularly efficient approach for introducing support for new (higher) power levels.

The power level requirements of the power transmitter represented in Qi v1.0 and v1.1 are defined by the ability of the power transmitter to guarantee a particular rectified power for the test power receiver. The guaranteed power level in Qiv1.0 and v1.1 is, for example, 5W for a suitable reference power receiver. Some embodiments of the invention allow negotiations for guaranteed power to a higher level during the negotiation phase, eg, 15 W rectified power for a suitable reference power receiver. In response to a request for a guaranteed power level of, for example, 15 W from the power receiver to the power transmitter, the power transmitter indicates whether or not it supports such level.

The maximum power level index of the power receiver represented by v1.0 and 1.1 of Qi is defined by the maximum rectified power level of the power receiver. This value can also be used as a reference value for the definition of received power. Received power is defined as relative to the maximum rectified power level of the power receiver. Existing power transmitters may not support the maximum power level of a power receiver higher than, for example, 5W, or may even shut down if the power receiver exhibits a value higher than, for example, 5W level in the configuration phase. In particular, setting the power class bit in the configuration packet as represented in 6.3.7 of Qiv1.0 and v1.1 causes problems for some existing power transmitters. Embodiments of the present invention allow negotiation to bring the maximum power to a higher level, eg 15 W, in the negotiation phase.

The accuracy of received power is a challenge for improvements for power levels above 5W. Accuracy can be partially improved by using received power packets with a larger payload. Increasing the payload from 8 bits to 16 bits allows the received power to be coded more accurately. The payload of the received power packet specified in v1.0 and v1.1 of Qi is 8 bits. In order to specify a 16-bit received power packet, it is necessary to use the packet currently reserved in Qiv1.0 and v1.1. Such information packets may be transmitted, for example, during the negotiation phase. Existing power transmitters do not support such 16-bit received power packets, and more seriously, some power transmitters even shut down if the power receiver uses packets that are currently reserved.

The embodiment makes it possible to negotiate the use of 16-bit received power packets, or more generally, which received power packets to use.

According to any feature of the invention, when in the negotiation phase, the power receiver and power transmitter determine a second set of parameters in multiple negotiation cycles, each in which the power receiver operates parameters. Includes sending a message specifying that the power transmitter responds with a message that accepts or rejects the operating parameter.

The use of the negotiation cycle may provide a particularly suitable approach for the negotiation phase. In particular, this may provide a less complex approach for negotiating individual parameters separately. This approach allows the negotiation phase to be based on asymmetric communication, in particular the effective data rate from the power receiver to the power transmitter may be much higher than the rate from the power transmitter to the power receiver. In practice, in many embodiments, each negotiation cycle may only require 1-bit (indicating acceptance or rejection) communication from the power transmitter. Demodulation and interpretation of one-bit communication from a power transmitter to a power receiver can significantly reduce the required communication time, lower the data rate, and / or reduce the complexity of implementing the power receiver. / Or may enable improved cost efficiency. This is when compared to solutions where power transmitters use complete data packets to convey their capabilities, resulting in longer communication times, higher data rates, and more complex and costly power receiver implementations. Is.

This approach was originally developed based solely on one-way communication from the power receiver to the power transmitter and may be particularly suitable for systems such as Qi systems where there is limited room for the introduction of reverse communication. This can significantly facilitate the introduction of bidirectional communication required to support the negotiation phase.

The message that accepts or rejects the operating parameters of the power transmitter can be a simple one-bit message or, for example, a multi-bit message containing further information. For example, the message may indicate that the parameter was accepted, rejected, or not understood (also treated as rejected). In some embodiments, the first message may further include confirmation of receipt of a message specifying operating parameters. Messages that accept or reject operating parameters may further contain redundant bits provided to increase the reliability of the communication. For example, redundant bits that are part of the error code may be used (eg, simple iterative code may be used).

According to any feature of the invention, when in the negotiation phase, the power transmitter proceeds to the power transmission phase in response to receiving a power control error message from the power receiver.

This may provide improved and / or more reliable operation of the power transmission system.

According to any feature of the invention, when in the negotiation phase, the power receiver sends a negotiation phase end message and the power transmitter exits the negotiation phase in response to receiving the negotiation phase end message. Enter the transmission phase.

This may provide improved and / or more reliable operation of the power transmission system.

According to any feature of the invention, when in the negotiation phase, the power receiver sends a power supply end message in response to the determination that the second set of parameters does not meet the power receiver's requirements. Upon receiving the power supply end message, the transmitter ends the negotiation phase and returns to the standby mode.

This may provide improved and / or more reliable operation of the power transmission system.

According to any feature of the invention, when in the negotiation phase, the power receiver sends a power control error message, discards the parameter changes introduced by the negotiation phase, then enters the power transfer phase, and the power transmitter In response to the reception of the power control error message, the negotiation phase is terminated, the parameter changes introduced by the negotiation phase are discarded, and then the power transmission phase is entered.

This may provide improved and / or more reliable operation of the power transmission system.

According to any feature of the invention, the request to enter the requested negotiation phase is contained within the message of the configuration phase.

This provides a particularly suitable approach and can result in reliable and efficient power transfer initialization with low complexity.

According to any feature of the invention, the required configuration phase is performed according to the specifications of Qi power transfer standard version 1.0 or 1.1.

The system may allow improved and / or new features to be introduced into the Qi power transfer system, while still allowing existing devices that only support version 1.0 or 1.1 to be used. ..

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of operating a power transmitter of an inductive power transmission system including a power transmitter that generates a wireless power signal for a power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system modulates the power signal. Supports two-way communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver based on, the method is to receive the signal strength packet from the power receiver, which initiates the required configuration phase, and the power transmitter and power receiver. A step of performing the required configuration phase in which the first set of power transmission operating parameters is selected for, a step of receiving a request to enter the negotiation phase requested by the power receiver, and sending approval to the power receiver. The step of approving the request to enter the requested negotiation phase, the step of entering the requested negotiation phase in response to the reception of the request to enter the requested negotiation phase, and the power transmission operation regarding the power transmitter and the power receiver. Includes a step to perform the requested negotiation phase in which a second set of parameters is selected.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of operating a power receiver of an inductive power transmission system including a power transmitter that generates a wireless power signal for the power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system modulates the power signal. Supports two-way communication between a power transmitter and a power receiver based on, the method is to initiate the required configuration phase by sending a signal strength packet to the power transmitter, and the power transmitter and power. To perform the required configuration phase in which the first set of power transmission operating parameters for the receiver is selected, to send a request to enter the requested negotiation phase, and to receive an approval message from the power transmitter. It comprises entering a correspondingly requested negotiation phase and performing a requested negotiation phase in which a second set of power transmission operating parameters for power transmitters and receivers is selected.

According to one aspect of the invention, an inductive power transmission system comprising a power transmitter and a power receiver is provided, the power transmitter generates a wireless power signal for the power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system is power. Supports bidirectional communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver based on signal modulation, the power receiver initiates the required configuration phase by sending a signal strength packet to the power transmitter, the power transmitter. And the power receiver performs the required configuration phase in which the first set of power transmission operating parameters for the power transmitter and power receiver is selected, and the power receiver sends a request to enter the requested negotiation phase. The power transmitter then approves the request to enter the requested negotiation phase by sending an approval to the power receiver, and the power transmitter receives the request to enter the requested negotiation phase. The power receiver enters the requested negotiation phase upon receipt of approval from the power transmitter, and the power receiver and power transmitter perform the requested negotiation phase. Determines a second set of operating parameters.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a power transmitter for an inductive power transmission system is provided, and the inductive power transmission system supports bidirectional communication between a power transmitter and a power receiver based on modulation of a power signal. However, the power transmitter is a means for generating a power signal, a means for receiving a signal strength packet from the power receiver to start an essential configuration phase, and a power transmission operation relating to the power transmitter and the power receiver. Means for performing the required configuration phase in which the first set of parameters is selected, means for receiving requests to enter the negotiation phase requested by the power receiver, and sending approval to the power receiver. A means for approving a request to enter the requested negotiation phase, a means for entering the requested negotiation phase in response to receiving a request to enter the requested negotiation phase, and a power transmitter and power reception. A second set of power transmission operating parameters for the machine is selected, including means for performing the requested negotiation phase.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a power receiver of an inductive power transmission system including a power transmitter that generates a wireless power signal for the power receiver is provided, and the power transmission system transmits power based on modulation of the power signal. Supports two-way communication between the machine and the power receiver, the power receiver includes the receiver controller, and the receiver controller initiates the required configuration phase by sending a signal strength packet to the power transmitter. To send a request to enter the requested negotiation phase, and means to perform the required configuration phase in which the first set of power transmission operating parameters for the power transmitter and receiver is selected. In response to the receipt of the approval message from the power transmitter, the means for entering the requested negotiation phase and a second set of power transmission operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver are selected. Includes means for performing the requested negotiation phase.

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be explained and clarified in the context of the following embodiments.

The embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as an example.

FIG. 1 shows an example of an element of a power transmission system according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows an example of an element of a power transmitter according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows an example of an element of a power receiver according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows an example of an element of a power receiver according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 shows an example of an element of an operation method of a power transmission system according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows an example of an element of an operation method of a power transmission system according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 shows an example of an element of an operation method of a power transmission system according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a power transmission system according to a part of the embodiment of the present invention. The power transmission system comprises a power transmitter 101 that includes (or is coupled to) the transmit coil / inductor 103. The system further comprises a power receiver 105 that includes (or is coupled to) the receive coil / inductor 107.

The system provides wireless inductive power transfer from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105. Specifically, the power transmitter 101 generates a power signal propagated as a magnetic flux by the transmission coil 103. The power signal can typically have a frequency of about 100 kHz to 200 kHz. The transmitting coil 103 and the power receiver 105 are loosely coupled, so that the receiving coil picks up (at least a portion of) the power signal from the power transmitter 101. Therefore, power is transmitted from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 via wireless inductive coupling from the transmit coil 103 to the receive coil 107. The term power signal is used primarily to refer to the electrical signal supplied to the transmit coil 103, but can also be similarly conceivable and used to refer to the magnetic flux signal or even the electrical signal of the receive coil 107. Will be understood.

Hereinafter, the operation of the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 will be described with reference to one embodiment (excluding the changes and improvements described in the present specification (or inevitable)) according to the Qi standard. do. In particular, the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 may substantially support Qi specification version 1.0 or 1.1 (except for the changes and improvements described (or inevitable) herein). ..

In order to prepare and control the power transmission between the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 in the wireless power transmission system, the power receiver 105 transmits information to the power transmitter 101. Such communication is standardized in Qi specification versions 1.0 and 1.1.

At the physical level, the communication channel from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101 is realized by using the power signal as a carrier. The power receiver 105 modulates the load of the receiving coil 107. This results in corresponding fluctuations in the power signal on the power transmitter side. Load modulation can be detected by changes in the amplitude and / or phase of the current in the transmit coil 103, or in addition, by changes in the voltage of the transmit coil 103. Based on this principle, the power receiver 105 can modulate the data demodulated by the power transmitter 101. This data is formatted in bytes and packets. For more information, see the Qi Wireless Power Transfer, also known as the "System description, Wireless Power Transfer," available via http://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/downloads/wireless-power-specification-part-1.html. , Volume I: Low Power, Part 1: Interface Definition, Version 1.0 July 2010, published by the Wireless Power Consortium ", especially in Chapter 6 Communications Interface.

To control power transfer, the system can go through different phases, especially the selection phase, the ping phase, the identification and configuration phase, and the power transfer phase. More information can be found in Part 1, Chapter 5 of the Qi Wireless Power Supply Specification.

The power transmitter 101 is initially in a selection phase that only monitors the potential presence of the power receiver. The power transmitter 101 may use various methods for this purpose, such as those described in the Qi wireless power supply specification. When such a potential presence is detected, the power transmitter 101 enters a ping phase in which a power signal is temporarily generated. The power receiver 105 may apply a received signal to activate its electronic device. After receiving the power signal, the power receiver 105 transmits the first packet to the power transmitter 101. Specifically, a signal strength packet indicating the degree of coupling between the power transmitter and the power receiver is transmitted. More information can be found in Part 1, Chapter 6.3.1 of the Qi Wireless Power Supply Specification. Therefore, in the Ping phase, it is determined whether or not the power receiver 105 exists in the interface of the power transmitter 101.

Upon receiving the signal strength message, the power transmitter 101 transitions to the identification and configuration phase. In this phase, the power receiver 105 keeps its output load unconnected and communicates with the power transmitter 101 using load modulation. The power transmitter provides a constant amplitude, frequency, and phase power signal for this purpose (except for changes caused by load modulation). The message is used by the power transmitter 101 to configure itself as requested by the power receiver 105.

The system then transitions to the power transfer phase where the actual power transfer takes place. Specifically, after transmitting its own power request, the power receiver 105 connects the output load and supplies the received power to the output load. The power receiver 105 monitors the output load and measures a control error between the measured value and the target value at a particular operating point. The power receiver 105 transmits such control errors to the power transmitter 101 at a minimum rate of, for example, 250 ms each, and indicates these errors and a request for change or no change of the power signal to the power transmitter 101.

It should be noted that the Qi wireless power supply specifications versions 1.0 and 1.1 specify only communication from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101, i.e. only one-way communication.

However, the system of FIG. 1 uses bidirectional communication, i.e., it is also possible to transmit data from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105. A variety of applications can benefit from such communications, for example setting the power receiver to test mode, setting the power receiver to calibration mode, or, for example, commanding or status information from the power transmitter to the power receiver. In order to transmit the power, it is possible to communicate from the power transmitter to the power receiver under the control of the power receiver.

FIG. 2 shows the power transmitter 101 of FIG. 1 in more detail. The transmit coil 103, also referred to as the primary coil 103 (PCL), is shown connected to the power transmitter communication unit 201 (TRM-COM), and the power transmitter communication unit 201 is coupled to the transmitter controller 203 (CTR). There is.

The power transmitter communication unit 201 transmits the modulator 205 (MOD) coupled to the driver 207 (DRV) for driving the transmit coil 103, and the (potentially) modulated power signal (PS) the transmit coil 103. Have for transmission to the power receiver 105 via.

In this system, the power receiver 105 may transmit the power receiver signal to the power transmitter 101 via the receiving coil 107 and the transmitting coil 103 by load-modulating the power signal. This signal is called a reflected signal (RS). The reflected signal is detected, for example, by the sensing unit 209 (SNS) sensing the current or voltage of the transmitting coil 103. A demodulator 211 (DEM) is coupled to the transmitter controller 203 to demodulate the detected signal, for example by converting the amplitude or phase change of the detected signal into bits.

In the example of FIG. 2, the first unit 213 is configured to receive data from the power receiver 105 via the transmission coil 103. The first unit 213 includes a sensing unit 209 and a demodulator 211. These two units realize the function of receiving data via the transmission coil 103. The transmit coil 103 transmits an AC magnetic field (power signal PS) for inductive power transmission to the receive coil 107, and the reflected magnetic field (reflected signal RS) (ie, the power signal caused by load modulation) caused by the receive coil 107. Fluctuation) is received. The sensing unit 209 (current / voltage sensor SNS) senses the current / voltage of the transmission coil 103. The demodulator 211 converts the amplitude or phase change of the sensed signal into data.

The transmitter controller 203 can interpret the received data, control the second unit 215 accordingly, and transmit a message to the power receiver 105 via the transmitting coil 103. In this example, the message is specifically a response message for responding to a message from the power receiver 105, which may be an approval / disapproval or acceptance / rejection message in particular. Such a communication configuration enables a less complex approach and may avoid the need for complex communication functions and protocols to support communication from the power transmitter to the power receiver. This approach also allows the power receiver to remain the control element of the power transmitter and thus can be in good harmony with the general design principles of the Qi power transfer approach.

Specifically, the transmitter controller 203 modulates the power signal by controlling the modulator 205 to supply a desired message. The modulator 205 may specifically modulate the power signal by altering the amplitude, frequency, or phase of the power signal, i.e., typically AM, FM, and / or PM modulation. The driver 207, which is also included in the second unit 215, is configured to transmit the power signal modulated via the transmission coil 103 to the power receiver 105 by supplying the AC electric signal to the transmission coil 103.

Controller 203 is further configured to control power transfer settings and to implement the required control and operation phases / functions. In particular, the controller 203 may receive and interpret the message from the transmit coil 103 and set, for example, the required power level of the power signal accordingly. Specifically, during the identification and configuration phase, the controller 203 may interpret the configuration packet or message from the power receiver 105 and set, for example, the maximum power signal level accordingly. During the power transfer phase, the transmitter controller 203 may increase or decrease the power level according to the control error message received from the power receiver 105.

FIG. 3 shows the power receiver 105 of FIG. 1 in more detail. The receiving coil 107 (SCL) is shown connected to the power receiver communication unit 301 (REC-COM), and the power receiver communication unit 301 is coupled to the receiver controller 303 (CTR). The power receiver 105 includes a first unit 305 for transmitting data from the receiving coil 107 to the power transmitter 101 via the transmitting coil 103. The first unit 305 is a variable load coupled to a modulator 309 (MOD) for modulating the load in the receive coil 107 to generate a reflected signal (RS) for transmitting data to the power transmitter 101. It has 307 (LD). It will be appreciated that the first unit 305 is a functional unit that includes a modulator 309 and a variable load 307.

The power receiver 105 further includes a second unit 311 for receiving a message from the power transmitter 101 via the receiving coil 107. To this end, the second unit 311 is a sensing unit 313 for detecting a modulated power signal (PS) received from the power transmitter 101 via the receiving coil 107, for example by sensing a voltage or current. (SNS) is provided.

The second unit 311 further comprises a demodulator 315 (DEM) coupled to the sensing unit 313 and the receiver controller 303. The demodulator 315 demodulates the detection signal based on the modulation used. The modulation is, for example, amplitude modulation (AM), phase modulation (PM), or frequency modulation (FM), and the demodulator 315 performs appropriate modulation, eg, amplitude, frequency, and / or phase change of the detection signal. Can be retrieved by converting to bits.

As an example, the receiving coil 107 may receive a power signal for inductive power transmission from the transmitting coil 103 and transmit a reflected signal to the transmitting coil 103 by varying the load 307. Therefore, the variation of the load 307 provides the modulation of the power signal. The modulator 309 controls the amplitude (and / or the frequency and / or phase of the reflected signal), eg, by connecting / disconnecting an impedance circuit, that is, controlling the operation of the load 307. The current / voltage sensing unit 313 senses the current / voltage of the receiving coil 107 received from the power transmitter 101. The sensing unit 313 may be part of another function of the power receiver, specifically the rectification and smoothing of the power signal used to generate DC power. The demodulator 315 translates the sensed signal into data. The receiver controller 303 controls (for example) the modulator 309 to transmit data and also interpret the data received by the demodulator 315.

The power receiving coil 107 is further connected to a power unit 317 configured to receive and extract power during the power transmission phase. The power unit 317 is coupled to a power load 319, which is a load supplied from the power transmitter 101 during the power transmission phase. The power load 319 may be an external power load, but is typically part of a power receiver device, such as a battery, display, or other function of the power receiver (eg, in the case of a smartphone, the power load). Can support the combined functions of smartphones).

The power receiving coil 107 may specifically include a rectifying circuit, a smoothing circuit (capacitor), and a voltage (and / or current) adjusting circuit to provide a stable DC output voltage (or current) source.

The power unit 317 is coupled to the receiver controller 303. This allows the receiver controller 303 to determine the operating characteristics of the power circuit and can be used, for example, to provide the receiver controller 303 with information about the current operating point. The receiver controller 303 may use this to generate a control error message during the power transfer phase. The receiver controller 303 further controls the operation of the power unit 317, for example, the receiver controller 303 may switch between connecting / disconnecting the load. Specifically, the receiver controller 303 may control the power unit 317 to disconnect the load during the configuration phase and connect the load during the power transmission phase.

In the system of FIG. 3, the sensing unit 313 is shown to receive the power signal directly, and the second unit 311 demodulates the data directly from the power signal. This can be useful, for example, in the case of frequency modulation.

However, in many scenarios, the sensing unit 313 may sense the signal of the power unit 317 instead of directly sensing the power signal.

As a specific example, the sensing unit 313 may measure the rectified and smoothed voltage generated by the power unit 317. This may be particularly suitable if the power signal is AM modulated.

Specifically, FIG. 4 shows the elements of the power unit 317 in more detail. Signal from the receiver coil 107 is rectified by a rectifier 401 (typically bridge rectifier), rectified signal is smoothed by the capacitor C _L, smoothed DC voltage is obtained (power consumption and C _L With a value-dependent ripple). Figure 4 further illustrates the switch S _L for connecting and disconnecting the power load 319. To ensure that the ripple during power transfer is low enough, the capacitor _CL is typically chosen to be relatively high, which slows down the time constant of the capacitor and load combination.

In this example, in order to communicate from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105, the power transmitter 101 may apply amplitude modulation to the power signal. This causes a change in amplitude across capacitor C _L, the sensing unit 313 to measure the voltage is coupled in this example. Therefore, the voltage variation across capacitor C _L has been detected, may be used to recover the modulated data on the power signal.

The use of such an approach allows for the reuse of components, which can reduce cost and complexity. However, in order to obtain a low ripple C _L has to be relatively large, which slows the voltage change across capacitor C _L. This is further emphasized when the load is not connected, i.e. during the identification and configuration phase. This can limit the data rate very significantly. Therefore, the system of FIG. 1 applies a communication and operating protocol suitable for low data rate communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105. In practice, in many scenarios it is preferable to be able to limit the messages from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 to 1-bit messages.

The current standardization of the Qi standard is based on one-way communication from the power receiver to the power transmitter. Therefore, the operating principle is based on the power receiver controlling the operation and adjusting and selecting the operating parameters. In addition, parameter matching and customization is limited to a small number of specific operating parameters set during the identification and configuration phase. However, as the system evolved, this approach was found to be very limiting and limited the capabilities, user experience, and performance that power transfer systems could offer. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the power transfer system, specifically the Qi systems of specification versions 1.0 and 1.1, to provide a more flexible approach to the selection and adaptation of operating parameters. For example, it would be desirable to support more power levels, including higher power levels than the current standards support. As another example, the ability to select, support, and optimize more complex communication protocols would be desirable.

However, the introduction of such improved functions is difficult to achieve and poses many challenges and challenges. In practice, additional features are required to allow backward compatibility, in particular existing version 1.0 and 1.1 devices are required to be able to be used with devices that support improved features. Also, improvements should preferably be less complex and could facilitate coordination and interworking with existing standards. Therefore, it is desirable to suppress necessary changes and changes. Therefore, further improvements preferably follow the design strategies and principles of existing standards.

The system of FIG. 1 provides improved functional support by introducing an additional negotiation phase that allows the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 to negotiate further operating parameters.

In fact, the configuration of operating parameters is hardly allowed in v1.0 and v1.1 of the Qi standard. The configuration of operating parameters is based on one-way communication, in particular based on the power receiver defining specific parameter values and transmitting them to the power transmitter to which they must be applied.

Information that can be communicated during the identification and configuration phase of versions 1.0 and 1.1 of the Qi system resides below.

Identification Parameter-Power Receiver Version-Manufacturer Code-Identifier Configuration Parameter-Power Control Delay Time-Maximum Power (defined by the 2-bit and 6-bit maximum power fields representing the power class)
-Prop: An indication that proprietary control can be used

Further details of these parameters can be found in Qi specification versions 1.0 and 1.1.

The configuration phase is maintained in the system of FIG. Therefore, an essential configuration phase is performed that allows a fixed set of operating parameters to be defined. For Qi power transfer systems, this configuration phase specifically corresponds to the identification and configuration phase.

However, in addition, a new negotiation phase has been introduced that allows the system to determine further operating parameters (and / or modify the operating parameters already determined in the configuration phase, typically with a wider range of negotiation phases. It may be possible to choose from the values of). The negotiation phase is based on the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 negotiating parameters using bidirectional communication. Therefore, in contrast to the configuration phase, the power transmitter does not necessarily have to apply the operating parameters defined by the power receiver and may accept or reject these values. However, in the system of FIG. 1, the negotiation phase still supports the fundamental design principles of the Qi system by allowing the power receiver 105 to be the main control element. Specifically, in many embodiments, the negotiation phase provides a system in which the power receiver 105 proposes operating parameters and the power transmitter 101 simply approves / disapproves (accepts / rejects) the proposed parameters. Can support. This further facilitates communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105, especially allowing a low data rate communication channel to be sufficient to support operation. It also measures, for example, a certain amount of zero crossing time of the received signal, for example by allowing amplitude detection using existing rectifying and smoothing capacitor circuits, or by using simple frequency demodulation techniques. Thereby, it may be possible to reduce the complexity and cost.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the operation of the power transmission system of FIG.

First, both the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 operate in the Ping phases 501 and 503, and the power transmitter 101 temporarily increases the output. In response, the power receiver 105 sends a signal strength message to the power transmitter 101 to move to (identification and) configuration phase 505. Further, upon receiving the signal strength message, the power transmitter 101 transitions from the Ping phase to the (identification and) configuration phase.

The power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 subsequently perform (identification and) configuration phases to establish a first set of power transfer parameters. Specifically, the power receiver may supply its own ID (version number, etc.) to determine the power transmission value.

Communication is unidirectional, specifically achieved by the power transmitter 101 maintaining a constant power signal and the power receiver 105 supplying load modulation of this signal. At the end of the configuration phase, a basic power contract has been established between the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101. This power contract specifically corresponds to a power level consumed by the power receiver 105 and must be supplied by the power transmitter 101.

The above steps may be specifically performed according to Qi standard version 1.0 or 1.1. Therefore, the system in Figure 1 fully supports existing versions 1.0 and 1.1 devices, thus maintaining backward compatibility.

However, in this case, the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 are improved devices that may support a negotiation phase to configure additional operating parameters (or modify existing operating parameters).

Therefore, at some stage, the power receiver 105 may send a message to the power transmitter 101 requesting that the system enter the negotiation phase. Such a request message may be a dedicated message for that purpose, but may be part of a message containing other information for the power transmitter. The request can be included, for example, in the final message of the identification and configuration phase. Upon receiving the negotiation phase request message, the power transmitter 101 sends an acknowledgment message (511) and then enters the negotiation phase 513. Further, upon receiving the acknowledgment message, the power receiver 105 enters the negotiation phase 515.

The power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 then determine further operating parameters by following the negotiation protocol described in more detail below. Additional operating parameters may include new parameters that cannot be defined in the configuration phase according to Qi specification versions 1.0 and 1.1. For example, the negotiation phase can be used to define appropriate communication parameters or protocols for bidirectional communication. Alternatively, or in addition, the negotiation phase may modify parameters that may already be defined in the identification and configuration phase. However, in many embodiments, such changes also include changing the parameter to a value that is not allowed or supported by the Qi specification version 1.0 or 1.1.

For example, versions 1.0 and 1.1 target low power devices with power consumption of 5 W or less. The power transmitter 101 must be able to support the power level indicated by the power receiver 105 in the identification and configuration phase, so that the power receiver 105 can only request up to 5W of power. However, efforts are underway to develop the standard to support medium power devices with maximum power consumption of 120W. The system of FIG. 1 uses the identification and configuration phase to establish a 5W power contract, after which the power receiver 105 requests the initialization of a negotiation phase that can be negotiated to change the power transfer contract to, for example, 15W. Thereby, such higher power may be supported. Therefore, the above approach may allow the introduction of higher powered devices while providing full backward compatibility. In practice, the identification and configuration phase corresponds to the Qi specification versions 1.0 and 1.1, so the power transmitter 101 in FIG. 1 can interact with any version 1.0 or 1.1 power receiver. Similarly, the power receiver 105 of FIG. 1 can interact with any version 1.0 or 1.1 power transmitter (although, of course, is limited to the operation (eg, power level) specified by that version).

Further, the negotiation phase is entered at the request of the power receiver 105. Therefore, the main control and complexity of operation is retained by the power receiver. This approach also follows the design principles of the Qi system, with the changes required for the device (including the power receiver as the behavior of the power receiver does not need to change significantly to support the operation controlled by the transmitter). Minimize.

Therefore, the negotiation phase is an optional phase. In fact, the system can operate based solely on the identification and configuration phase without ever entering the negotiation phase. However, if requested, it can enter the negotiation phase and provide further flexibility and customization of operating parameters. The negotiation phase is even more optional in that it is not an essential feature that must be supported by all Qi devices. The negotiation phase is only supported by improved devices, while simpler eg legacy devices can still only support versions 1.0 and 1.1. However, if the device promises to negotiate a new extension in the negotiation phase, the device must typically comply with the negotiation procedures described in connection with the negotiation phase.

Therefore, this approach provides a practical, efficient and / or less complex approach for improving power transfer systems while maintaining a high degree of backward compatibility. This approach may enable additional features, improved performance, and / or an improved user experience. For example, this approach may allow the introduction of new power levels and new communication methods in future releases of the Qi standard.

In the example of FIG. 1, the negotiation phase is specifically executed by a plurality of negotiation cycles, in which the power receiver 105 proposes or requests the value of the operating parameter, and the transmitter accepts or rejects the request. By responding, at least one parameter is determined. Specifically, in this example, each negotiation cycle comprises the power receiver 105 requesting a value for one operating parameter and the transmitter responding with a one-bit message accepting or rejecting the requested value. The negotiation phase may include a single negotiation cycle or may include multiple negotiation cycles to set multiple parameter values.

In practice, in some embodiments, the number of negotiation cycles may vary depending on the outcome of the previous negotiation cycle. For example, if the power receiver 105 requests a particular power value and is rejected by the power transmitter 101, the power receiver 105 may request a lower value in the next negotiation cycle.

In this system, one or typically multiple negotiation cycles are thus performed in the negotiation phase. Each negotiation cycle corresponds to an individual operating parameter that is individually accepted or rejected by the power transmitter 101, which ensures that the power transmitter 101 and the power receiver 105 meet their explicit promises regarding the new parameters. Provides a less complex approach. Specifically, in each negotiation cycle, the power receiver 105 requests support for specific operating parameters, and the power transmitter 101 responds with a response message indicating whether it accepts or rejects the request. The operating parameters may be related to power level, communication mode, foreign matter detection (FOD), etc., respectively.

An example of an exemplary negotiation cycle will be described with reference to FIG.

The negotiation cycle determines whether the power transmitter 101 supports a particular operating parameter (eg, whether a particular value of a particular function or parameter (eg, power level) is supported) of the power receiver 105. Starts at step 601 requested by. This may be, for example, a request for the power transmitter 101 to support a particular power level, communication mode, etc.

Upon receiving the request, the power transmitter 101 evaluates in step 603 whether it can support the requested operating parameter (value). If supportable, the power transmitter 101 proceeds to generate and transmit an acceptance message to the power receiver 105 (step 605), and further decides to support its operating parameters after establishing a new power transfer contract.

If the power receiver 105 receives an acceptance response within a predetermined time (step 605), the power receiver 105 decides to apply its operating parameters after establishing a new power transfer contract.

If the power transmitter 101 does not support the requested operating parameters, it responds with a rejection message at 609. If the power receiver 105 receives a rejection response (step 611), the power receiver 105 decides not to use the operating parameters requested after establishing a new power transfer contract.

If the power transmitter 101 does not understand the request because the request is unknown to the power transmitter, the power transmitter responds with a message indicating that the receiver response is not understood (step 613). If the power receiver receives such a response (step 615), after establishing a new power transfer contract, it is determined not to apply the requested operating parameters. Further, in order to avoid unnecessary communication, the power receiver may avoid repeating such a request in the subsequent stage.

If the power transmitter does not receive the request correctly due to a communication error, the power transmitter does not send a response message (step 617). If the power receiver does not receive the response message within a given time, the power receiver does not apply the requested operating parameters, but may make the request again (step 619). Normally, if the power receiver does not receive the response message correctly due to a communication error, the power receiver does not apply the operating parameters, but the request may be made again.

The message that accepts or rejects the operating parameters of the power transmitter can be a simple one-bit message, or, for example, a multi-bit message containing other information. For example, the message may indicate that the parameter has been accepted, rejected, or not understood (also treated as rejected). In some embodiments, the first message may further include acceptance approval of the message specifying operating parameters. Messages that accept or reject operating parameters may further contain redundant bits provided to increase the reliability of the communication. For example, redundant bits that are part of the error code may be used (eg, a simple ellipsis code may be used).

As a specific example, the message from the power transmitter 101 can be an 8-bit message including an approval indication and an indication that the parameter is accepted, rejected, or not understood. Such information can be clearly communicated in less than 8 bits, but redundant bits may be used to provide more reliable detection. In particular, the use of redundant bits increases the Hamming distance between the data symbols (8-bit combinations) corresponding to each option, which allows accurate detection even in the presence of bit errors.

An approach that uses a negotiation cycle that includes a separate approval (accept / reject message) provides a very efficient approach and is particularly well suited for power transfer systems such as Qi power transfer systems. In particular, this approach maintains the design principle that the power receiver 105 is the master controller responsible for the parameter setting selection. The approach further minimizes the communication required of the transmitter and in fact requires each negotiation approach to transmit only a single bit from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105. Therefore, communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 requires only a very low data rate. Therefore, while the negotiation phase is based on bidirectional communication, this communication is asymmetric and the data rate of communication from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101 is higher than the communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105. It may be significantly higher and the data coding may be significantly more complex. Such an approach is particularly suitable for systems such as Qi. This is because the impacts and changes required to introduce communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 while utilizing the already standardized high data rate communication from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101. This is because

In particular, such an approach may make it possible to detect amplitude modulation of a power signal using a very slow time constant. This can, in particular, enable sensing-based detection of the output voltage produced by the rectifying and smoothing capacitors of the power transfer circuit. This may reduce the number of components and in particular make it possible to use the same A / D converter (without the need for any switching circuitry).

Also, such an approach has high performance requirements or additional complexity for the power receiver and its control unit, for example by counting the zero crossings of the received signal and measuring the elapsed time for a relatively large number of predetermined zero crossings. It can enable simple and low cost frequency modulation and demodulation without imposing a property.

In this example, the communication from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101 is by load modulation, that is, the power receiver 105 changes the load of the power signal / transmit coil and the power transmitter 101 results in (voltage and). / Or by detecting current) fluctuations. Communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 can be achieved by any suitable communication, but is typically achieved by the power transmitter 101 modulating the power signal. This modulation can typically be amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or phase modulation (PM), but may be other modulation formats such as pulse width modulation (PWM). Low data rates are sufficient for the efficient handshake cycle used by the negotiation cycle, so reliable communication using simple detection circuits can often be used.

As a specific example, the system may be based on AM modulation in which the power transmitter 101 changes the amplitude of the power signal (typically the voltage amplitude) after receiving a packet from the power receiver 105. This can be done, for example, by the power transmitter 101 simply reducing the voltage of the transmit coil signal by, for example, 5%. Thus, the amplitude reduction can be achieved directly by varying the voltage, but can also be achieved, for example, by altering the frequency from the resonant frequency of the tuning output circuit of the power transmitter 101 (including the transmit coil).

Power receiver 105 may measure the voltage across the smoothing capacitor of the power transmission unit 317 (corresponding to the voltage across capacitor C _L in Figure 4). Due to the low time constant, this voltage only slowly follows the voltage of the power signal (typically a time constant on the order of a few milliseconds). However, since only one bit needs to be transmitted, the typical timing of Qi communication still allows the power receiver 105 to detect the signal within a reasonable amount of time.

As mentioned above, further sets of operating parameters determined in the negotiation phase include modifying parameters already determined in the configuration phase, or were not selected or are not selectable in the identification and configuration phase. May include operating parameters. Further, the negotiation phase may be entered a plurality of times, and the operation parameters set in the preceding negotiation phase may be changed in the later negotiation phase.

As an example, the negotiation phase may negotiate communication parameter settings for communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver. The communication parameter may be, for example, a modulation parameter (modulation type, modulation degree, etc.), a data rate parameter, an error control parameter, or the like. The communication parameters may be applied in only one of the two directions (ie, from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105, or from the power receiver 105 to the power transmitter 101), or may be applied in both directions. ..

As an example, the default modulation format for communication from the power transmitter 101 to the power receiver 105 in the negotiation phase may be AM. However, the negotiation cycle may be initiated by the power receiver 105 transmitting a message requesting that FM (specifically, FSK) be used for subsequent transmissions from the power transmitter 101. If the power transmitter 101 can support FSK, the power transmitter 101 sends an acceptance message and then applies FSK thereafter (or possibly from the end of the negotiation phase). If the power transmitter 101 cannot support FSK, the power transmitter 101 sends a rejection message and the communication continues to use AM.

In many embodiments, the operating parameters set in the negotiation phase include power level parameters. Specifically, the identification and configuration phase can result in a power contract between the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 that allows the power receiver 105 to extract up to 5W (version 1.0 and). According to the limitation of 1.1). However, in the subsequent negotiation phase, the power receiver 105 may send a request to raise the power level allocation to a value higher than that supported by the identification and configuration phase. For example, the power receiver 105 may request that it be allocated 10W. If the power transmitter 101 can support the increased power level, the power transmitter 101 sends an acceptance message, otherwise it sends a rejection message.

It will be appreciated that more complex power level parameters can be set. For example, a power level request can be associated with timing information. Thus, for example, the power receiver 105 may request that 5W be allowed continuously and 10W be allowed for 10% of the time (or at specific time intervals). Such additional information may allow for more accurate power management, for example if the power transmitter 101 supports multiple devices simultaneously.

The power level parameter can be the maximum rectified power level intended for use by the power receiver (105).

To this end, the Qi standard includes request maximum power (0x04) packets that can be specified, for example:

Here, the parameters are defined as follows.
Power Class This field has an unsigned integer value that represents the class of power receiver.
Maximum Power In addition to the scale factor, unsigned integer values in this field represent the maximum amount of power expected to be supplied by the power receiver at the output of the rectifier. This maximum electric energy is calculated as follows.

Instead of representing power in 8-bit words, 16 bits may be used to improve accuracy.

If multiple packets carry the received power, there may be additional transmission to the transmitter that carries the power that should actually be used to configure the power transfer.

The negotiation phase can be entered at different times and from different modes of operation of the power transfer system. In the above example, the negotiation phase is entered after the identification and configuration phase, and thus the negotiation phase is entered after the initial power contract is established.

In many embodiments, the identification and configuration phase can be followed by the negotiation phase. This is specifically by sending a request for the power receiver 105 to enter the negotiation phase after (immediately after) the completion of the identification and configuration phase, or in fact the power receiver 105 is one of the identification and configuration phases. This can be achieved by sending a request as part and then both devices entering the negotiation phase at the completion of the identification and configuration phase. Therefore, in these embodiments, a negotiation phase is entered between the identification and configuration phase and the power transfer phase.

In some embodiments, the negotiation phase may be entered after the request has been transmitted from the power receiver 105 in a packet that is part of the identification and configuration phase. For example, in Qi versions 1.0 and 1.1, the last message in the configuration phase has multiple reserve data bits. According to some embodiments of the invention, one of these reserve data bits is used as a request to enter the negotiation phase after the identification and configuration phase.

Therefore, in such an embodiment, at the end of the configuration phase, the power receiver 105 indicates a request to enter the negotiation phase by setting the negotiation bits in the configuration packet. If the power transmitter 101 supports negotiation, the power transmitter 101 approves the receipt of the request and accepts the request by sending an acceptance message. In some embodiments, the approval / acceptance message may be sent after the configuration phase, i.e., within a time interval that is after the configuration phase and before the power transfer phase that would otherwise begin. The power transmitter 101 then enters the negotiation phase. If the power receiver 105 receives the acceptance message within a predetermined time, the power receiver 105 also proceeds to the negotiation phase.

In contrast to the identification and configuration phases, the negotiation phase is not mandatory and can be skipped. Therefore, if the power receiver does not indicate a request to enter the negotiation phase (by resetting the appropriate negotiation bits in the configuration packet) at the end of the configuration phase, then both the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 are in the negotiation phase. And proceed directly to the power transmission phase. If the power receiver 105 requests the negotiation phase, while the power transmitter 101 does not support the negotiation phase, the power transmitter 101 approves the reception of the request and rejects the request by sending a rejection message. Notify 105. Both devices then proceed to the power transfer phase.

This approach makes it possible to enter the power transfer phase, with appropriate modifications or basic power transfer contracts as appropriate. In practice, at the end of the configuration phase (before entering the negotiation phase), the power transmitter establishes a basic contract that includes the operating parameters specified in the low power Qi specification version 1.0 or 1.1. Versions 1.0 and 1.1 power transmitters do not support the power negotiation phase and do not respond to requests for any negotiation phase. In this case, the power transmitter goes directly to power transfer with the standard parameters of the identification phase. For example, in this case the transmission power can be 5W, but the new negotiation phase modifies it, for example, by specifying that the transmission power should be 10W instead or by a negotiation phase packet confirming that it is 5W. obtain. In addition, if the power receiver does not receive any accept or reject message within a given time (response time that the transmitter should meet), the receiver considers the power transmitter not to support power negotiation and proceeds to the power transmission phase. .. Similarly, the transmitter may be a modern transmitter that supports the negotiation phase, but may choose to return to the version 1 power transfer strategy (and associated communication strategy). Similarly, if the power receiver is a version 1.0 or 1.1 power receiver, no request is generated to enter the negotiation phase. In all of these cases, the system goes directly from the identification and configuration phase to the power transfer phase, and thus the basic power transfer contract applies.

Therefore, this approach provides full backward compatibility with versions 1.0 and 1.1 devices.

However, if both the power receiver 105 and the power transmitter 101 can support the configuration phase, they may enter the negotiation phase after the identification and configuration phase and before the power transfer phase. The negotiation phase may use the basic power transfer contract as a basis and modify it to provide a modified or improved power transfer contract. It then enters the power transfer phase with the improved power transfer contract.

In some embodiments, the power transfer system may optionally support entering the negotiation phase from the power transfer phase. Specifically, the power receiver may request the power transfer system to (re) enter the negotiation phase by sending a power transfer end packet with the appropriate payload (the payload is defined to indicate the desire to re-enter the negotiation phase). Will be).

If the system goes from the power transfer phase to the negotiation phase, the initial power transfer contract is the power transfer contract currently applied in the power transfer phase. This can be a basic power transfer contract if it has not previously entered the negotiation phase. However, if the negotiation phase has been entered in the past (eg, between the identification and configuration phase and the power transfer phase), the power transfer contract can be an improved power contract.

Being able to enter the negotiation phase from the power transfer phase provides a highly flexible system that can dynamically adapt its behavior to the specific requirements and preferences of the device.

Specifically, the negotiation phase may be configured to include a negotiation cycle only with respect to the parameters that the power receiver 105 intends to change. Therefore, all other features of the power transfer contract remain unchanged. Such an approach allows for a less complex and shorter negotiation phase.

In many embodiments, the power receiver 105 is configured to send a request to enter the negotiation phase only if it confirms that the power transmitter 101 can support the negotiation phase.

Therefore, the power receiver 105 determines whether or not the power transmitter supports the negotiation phase, and whether or not to send a request to enter the negotiation phase depending on whether or not the power transmitter supports the negotiation phase. Can be configured to select.

Such an approach may provide a more robust and reliable system and may also provide improved backward compatibility. In particular, existing Qi versions 1.0 and 1.1 power transmitters can interpret unknown messages as being due to an error situation and thus normally terminate operation.

Reconfiguration Issues Existing Qi versions 1.0 and 1.1 are then configured to re-enter the configuration phase from the power transfer phase and then re-enter the power transfer phase without interruption. Keep the operating point unchanged during the phase. However, in practice many power transmitters do not support this requirement. Also, many of these simply stop power transfer when the power receiver sets a reconfiguration request in the payload and transmits the power transfer end packet.

The use of reconfiguration options is no longer useful for power transmitter products on the market. The reconfiguration can be, for example, a change in the internal settings of the receiver, such as a transition from a half bridge to a full bridge for higher power.

Solution for Reconfiguration This situation is remedied, for example, by assuming that all new power transmitters that support negotiation have the reconfiguration feature implemented, and the power transmitter is tested for this feature. The power receiver can request reconfiguration options only after the system has entered the negotiation phase from the configuration phase before the power transfer phase.

Other embodiments may enable better options by defining a negotiation cycle within the negotiation phase in which the power receiver explicitly requests whether the power transmitter supports reconstruction. This is unquestionable and also allows for better compliance testing of power transmitters to see if they meet these requirements. Thus, the transmitter and receiver have a unit (typically software running on a processor) that produces a packet for the other, including, for example, a packet containing a particular request, as in the examples described herein. , The unit can handle the response received on these requests. The response is stored, for example, in local memory. For example, the response as to whether the transmitter (or receiver) can handle renegotiation or reconstruction is a simple affirmation or negation, i.e. can be encoded in one reserve bit. The request may also ask if the transmitter supports higher maximum power than the configured packets currently in use, and the response can also be affirmative or negative. Thus, for example, the guaranteed maximum power for the current power supply phase, and the maximum transmission capacity of the transmitter (which may also be variable, for example, in the current settings or configurations, or in the current time, etc.), etc. , You can get different power agreements.

Re-negotiation The ability of a power transmitter to enter the negotiation phase from the power transfer phase can be implied, for example, by allowing renegotiation only after the system has previously previously entered the configuration phase to the negotiation phase. However, one embodiment also allows for better options by specifying a negotiation cycle in which the power receiver explicitly requests whether the power transmitter supports renegotiation. This is unquestionable and allows for better compliance testing of power transmitters to see if they meet these requirements.

Both requests from the receiver, whether the power transmitter supports reconfiguration and whether the power transmitter supports renegotiation, are simply whether the transmitter supports reconfiguration and renegotiation. Can be combined into one request.

The renegotiation option is particularly suitable in the following situations: The power transmitter may have an inverter that can operate in two modes: half-bridge and full-bridge. Depending on the situation, the power transmitter may change its operation from half-bridge to full-bridge and vice versa. Half-bridge operation may be required for power receivers designed under Qiv1.0 and v1.1 to keep the rectified voltage of such power receivers below the upper limit. Full-bridge operation may be required to keep the rectified voltage of such new higher level power receivers above the lower limit for power receivers designed for future versions of Qi that allow higher power levels. ..

By negotiating the guaranteed power level, the power transmitter can determine whether a half-bridge or full-bridge operating mode is appropriate. Power receivers designed to receive high power levels require a high guaranteed power level in the negotiation cycle. Upon receiving such a request, the power transmitter changes its operating mode from the default half-bridge mode to full-bridge mode when entering power transfer mode in order to achieve a sufficiently high voltage at the receiver's rectifier output. obtain.

If the power receiver lowers the required power level during the power transfer phase, for example because the battery is nearly charged, the power transmitter may have to move from full bridge to half bridge. In this case, if the power receiver re-enters the negotiation phase from the power transfer phase with a renegotiation request, the negotiation cycle indicates that it needs a lower guaranteed power level, and then returns to the power transfer phase, very much. It is valid. Based on this request, in this (short) renegotiation phase, the power transmitter can change its operating mode from full bridge to half bridge when re-entering the power transfer phase, and the rectified voltage of the power receiver. It is possible to prevent the upper limit from being exceeded. In addition, the power receiver is aware of such a transition as it initiates a request for a lower guaranteed power level and anticipates a transition at the end of the (re) negotiation phase. If you are not aware of it, that is, if renegotiation does not apply, the power receiver will stop power transfer due to an unexpected change in power level during the transition from full-bridge operation to half-bridge operation during the power transfer phase. Can be hoped for.

A further advantage of the ability to renegotiate lower guaranteed power levels can be found in situations where multiple power transmitters must share a single power source. This situation can occur especially in public transportation where, for example, a single limited power source must power multiple power transmitters. In such a situation, only some of the needs of all power receivers that require power may be met. Guarantee power level renegotiation allows the power level of a power receiver whose device battery is nearly charged to be lowered, allowing a power receiver whose device battery is almost empty to use more power. do. For example, such a transmitter may include a communication unit to communicate with other transmitters with respect to the required power requirements (ie, the receiver powered by the transmitter) and then determine the optimal power supply status between the devices. obtain. This can be incorporated into the renegotiation phase where the receiver (or possibly the user of the receiver via the input means) may indicate that it can operate with less power than it currently has.

In one embodiment, the receiver may use a particular TX request packet to request that the transmitter provide a guaranteed power level.

It will be appreciated that different approaches can be used to detect the suitability of power transmitters. For example, in some embodiments, the compatible power transmitter may slightly change the power level in response to a message from the power receiver during the identification and configuration phase. This change can occur during the time interval between data messages from the power receiver. Thus, in such an embodiment, the power transmitter uses short, small amplitude reductions (or increases) to indicate that it is capable of bidirectional communication and can support the negotiation phase.

As a specific example, during the identification and configuration phase, the power receiver sends an identification message containing an indication of the Qi specification version it supports (eg, the power receiver itself is a version 2.0 compatible power receiver). Can be shown). If the power transmitter can support related features (eg, if the power transmitter can support version 2.0 (typically the power transmitter is a new device with version 2.0 or higher) )), The power transmitter temporarily changes the amplitude.

Correspondingly, the power receiver monitors the power signal between the messages being transmitted to the power transmitter, and if a change is detected, the power receiver considers the power transmitter to support the negotiation phase and later. Can send a request to enter the negotiation phase with.

It will be understood that different approaches can be used to end the negotiation phase.

In practice, the number of negotiation cycles may vary depending on the number of parameters the power receiver 105 wants to negotiate (and in some cases depending on the response of the power transmitter 101).

In some embodiments, the power receiver 105 may transmit a negotiation phase end message when satisfied with the negotiated power transfer contract. Upon receiving the negotiation phase end message, the power transmitter 101 ends the negotiation phase and proceeds to the power transmission phase. In some embodiments, the power transmitter may signal the receipt of a negotiation phase end message. In such an embodiment, the power receiver 105 may repeat the negotiation phase end message at intervals until the notification is received (or timed out). The power receiver 105 then proceeds to the power transmission phase. In another embodiment, the power receiver 105 may proceed directly to the power transfer phase after transmitting the negotiation phase end message.

As a specific example, a power receiver typically wants to enter the power transfer phase after zero or more negotiation cycles. In this case, the power receiver sends a negotiation phase end message (negotiation completion request) indicating that the power negotiation is completed to the power transmitter. Upon receiving the negotiation phase end message, the power transmitter establishes a power transfer contract based on the previous contract, modified by the parameters negotiated in the negotiation phase negotiation cycle. The power transmitter indicates that it accepts the negotiation phase end message by sending an acceptance message. The power transmitter then begins applying the promised operating parameters and proceeds to the power transfer phase. When the power receiver receives the acceptance message, the power receiver starts applying the promised operating parameters and proceeds to the power transfer phase.

If for some reason the power transmitter does not want to establish a new power transfer contract based on the current parameters, the power transmitter responds with a rejection message and stays in the negotiation phase. If the power receiver receives a rejection response, the power receiver remains in the power negotiation phase. The power receiver may then attempt to remedy the situation by renegotiating or exit the negotiation phase without having a modified power contract.

If the power transmitter does not receive the negotiation phase end message correctly due to a communication error, the power transmitter does not send a response message. If the power receiver does not receive the response message, the power receiver can stay in the power negotiation phase and repeat the negotiation phase end message. If the power receiver does not receive the response message correctly due to a communication error, the power receiver can stay in the power negotiation phase and repeat the negotiation phase end message.

If the power receiver does not want to proceed to the power transmission phase, the power receiver may send a dedicated power supply end message packet. Upon receiving such a packet, the power transmitter exits the negotiation phase and, in the case of a Qi system, returns to the standby phase corresponding to the selection phase. Therefore, during the negotiation phase, the power receiver may send a dedicated message that not only exits the negotiation phase but also terminates the entire power transfer setup process. The power receiver specifically determines that the set of parameters negotiable with the power transmitter is insufficient for the operation of the power receiver (eg, the power receiver cannot obtain the desired power level). And therefore the process can be abandoned.

Further, in some embodiments and scenarios, the power transmitter 101 may receive a power control error message when it belongs to the negotiation phase. Power control error messages are used to execute a power control loop for power transfer during the power transfer phase. These are specifically generated by the power receiver 105 to control the power signal to be at the desired operating point.

If the power transmitter receives a power control error message while in the negotiation phase, the power transmitter goes directly to the power transfer phase. Further, in many embodiments, the power transmitter discards the changes introduced during the negotiation phase and enters the power transfer phase with the power contract that existed before entering the negotiation phase.

This approach can be used, for example, by a power receiver to enter the power supply phase very quickly (eg, when the user initiates operation of the power receiver). In such cases, the power receiver may simply send a power control error message and go directly to the power transfer phase. Upon receiving the power control error message, the power transmitter also goes directly to the power transmission phase.

Therefore, if the power receiver wants to quickly transition to the power transmission phase, the power receiver may send a control error packet. After communication of the control error packet, both the power transmitter and the power receiver immediately proceed to the power transmission phase without establishing a new power transmission contract, thereby leaving the previously established power transmission contract intact.

This approach addresses more potential error situations. For example, if the power transmitter is in the negotiation phase due to an error while the power receiver is in the power transmission phase, the power receiver sends a power control error message as part of the standard procedure when it belongs to the power transmission phase. do. This then automatically shifts the power transmitter to the same power transfer phase, thereby correcting the situation.

Such a scenario can occur if the power receiver requests negotiation and the power transmitter supports negotiation, but the power receiver does not receive the acceptance message correctly or in time. In this case, the power transmitter can enter negotiation while the power receiver enters the power transfer phase. This is an undesired situation.

If the power receiver has no suspicion that a communication error has occurred, the power receiver must proceed according to the requirements of the power transmission phase and thus send a control error packet. If the power transmitter receives a control error packet while it belongs to the negotiation phase, the power transmitter proceeds to the power transmission phase without negotiation.

If the power receiver suspects a communication error, for example by detecting a response containing an error or a slow response, the power receiver instead sends a power transfer end packet with a request for reconfiguration to identify and configure from the power transfer phase. Can return to. The power transmitter and power receiver then re-enter the configuration phase. This allows for re-challenge to enter negotiation from the configuration phase.

When the power transmitter enters the power transmission phase for some unknown reason while the power receiver enters the configuration phase, the power transmitter does not receive the control error packet within the specified time. To finish. The power receiver in negotiated mode does not send control error packets unless it wants to enter the power transfer phase. Therefore, in this case the process may be terminated automatically and reinitialized by the receiver.

FIG. 7 shows an example of the operation and interaction of each phase when applied to a Qi system.

It should be understood that the above has described embodiments of the invention in the context of different functional circuits, units, and processors for clarity. However, it will be clear that functionality can be arbitrarily and appropriately distributed among different functional circuits, units, or processors without compromising the invention. For example, functions described as being performed by different processors or controllers may be performed by the same processor or controller. Therefore, reference to a particular functional unit or circuit is not considered to be a strict logical or physical structure or organization, but merely a reference to the appropriate means for providing the function being described.

Further adjust which extended options are available between the receiver and the transmitter, such as whether the transmitter or receiver is reconfigurable during power supply and, in some cases, more information. Therefore, the negotiation phase can be preferably used. This should go smoothly. If this was pre-agreed during the first negotiation, either the transmitter or the receiver initiates such a request, followed by a set of subsequent process states defaulted as standard or agreed during the first negotiation. And processing occurs. A completely new negotiation can be initiated using the same principles to make the options fully available. For example, the initial negotiation may be a simple one that communicates a minimum number of essential parameters so that power can be started quickly. On the other hand, a lot of extra information may be collected (eg, indicating that the user needs to remove the receiver more quickly, or the transmitter negotiates or receives a power supply contract with multiple other devices. The machine may perform excessive testing of the battery, or the receiver or transmitter may test or measure other relevant parameters), after which a more detailed negotiation phase may be initiated as needed. May be good.

ReConf（再構成） このビットが１に設定される場合、電力受信機は電力送信機が再構成をサポートするか否かを確認する。６．３．２章は、電力受信機が如何に再構成を示し得るかを記載する。
ReNeg（再ネゴシエーション） このビットが１に設定される場合、電力受信機は電力送信機が再ネゴシエーションをサポートするか否かを確認する。６．３．２章は、電力受信機が如何に再ネゴシエーションを示し得るかを記載する。 For example, to enable the above options, future Qi or similar power transfer standards may include packets referred to as "confirmation of TX support for reconstruction and renegotiation (0x06)" which may be defined as follows: Can include.

ReConf When this bit is set to 1, the power receiver checks to see if the power transmitter supports reconfiguration. Section 6.3.2 describes how a power receiver can exhibit a reconstruction.
ReNeg When this bit is set to 1, the power receiver checks to see if the power transmitter supports renegotiation. Section 6.3.2 describes how power receivers can exhibit renegotiation.

The specific TX request packet (0x020) can be as follows.

The present invention may be implemented in any suitable form, including hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. In particular, a controller that implements a control strategy and process step flow, and any means or physical or functional unit thereof, may be, for example, software running on a general purpose processor, or a dedicated ASI configuration phase, such as a processor including a state machine. Can be physically implemented. The invention may optionally be at least partially implemented as computer software running on one or more data processors and / or digital signal processors. The elements and components of the embodiments of the present invention may be physically, functionally and logically implemented in any suitable manner. In practice, the function may be implemented in a single unit or multiple units, or as part of another functional unit. Accordingly, the invention may be implemented in a single unit or may be physically and functionally distributed among different units, circuits, and processors. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any options described in the embodiments of the system configuration or method will also be realized in the corresponding version of the transmitter or receiver and will be disclosed by them as well.

Although the present invention has been described in the context of some embodiments, it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described herein. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims. Also, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various features of the embodiments described may be combined in accordance with the present invention, even though certain features appear to be described in connection with a particular embodiment. Let's do it. In the claims, the term "includes (or prepares or has, etc.)" does not exclude the existence of other elements or steps.

Also, multiple means, elements, circuits, or method steps, even if listed individually, can be implemented, for example, by a single circuit, unit, or processor. Further, even if the individual features are contained in different claims, they are preferably combined, and even if they are contained in different claims, the combination of features cannot be realized and / or is preferable. Not always. Further, just because a feature is included in one claim category does not mean that it is limited to this category, and it can be applied equally to other claim categories as appropriate. Also, the order of the features in the claims does not imply the order in which the features must act, and in particular the order of each step in the method claim does not suggest that the steps must be performed in that order. .. Conversely, the steps can be performed in any suitable order. Also, do not exclude multiple elements. Therefore, a plurality of "first", "second", etc. are not excluded. It should be understood that the reference numerals in the claims are provided merely as an example for clarification and do not limit the scope of claims at all.

Claims (6)

An inductive power transmission system comprising a power transmitter and a power receiver, wherein the power transmitter produces a wireless power signal for the power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system is used to modulate the wireless power signal. Supports bidirectional communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver based on
The power receiver receives the power by transmitting to the power transmitter a signal strength packet that gives an index of the degree of coupling between the power transmitting coil of the power transmitter and the power receiving coil of the power receiver. The machine has started the configuration phase to transmit at least the identifier and the required power,
The power transmitter and the power receiver determine operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver in the configuration phase.
The power receiver sends a request to enter a negotiation phase for negotiating operating parameters between the power transmitter and the power receiver.
The power transmitter approves the request to enter the negotiation phase by sending the approval to the power receiver.
After transmitting the approval, the power transmitter enters the negotiation phase.
The power receiver enters the negotiation phase in response to receiving the approval from the power transmitter.
The power receiver and the power transmitter change the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase by executing the negotiation phase and / or new operating parameters not determined in the configuration phase. Decide and
The measured value of the operating point used by the power receiver to execute a power control loop to control the power signal from the power receiver to a desired operating point when the power transmitter is in the negotiation phase. An inductive power transmission system that, in response to receiving a power control error message indicating a control error between and a target value , proceeds to a power transmission phase in which power is transmitted from the power transmitter to the power receiver. An inductive power transmission system comprising a power transmitter and a power receiver, wherein the power transmitter produces a wireless power signal for the power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system is used to modulate the wireless power signal. Supports bidirectional communication between the power transmitter and the power receiver based on
The power receiver sets a configuration phase by transmitting to the power transmitter a signal strength packet that gives an index of the degree of coupling between the power transmitting coil of the power transmitter and the power receiving coil of the power receiver. Start and
The power transmitter and the power receiver determine operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver in the configuration phase.
The power receiver sends a request to enter a negotiation phase for negotiating operating parameters between the power transmitter and the power receiver.
The power transmitter approves the request to enter the negotiation phase by sending the approval to the power receiver.
After transmitting the approval, the power transmitter enters the negotiation phase.
The power receiver enters the negotiation phase in response to receiving the approval from the power transmitter.
The power receiver and the power transmitter change the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase by executing the negotiation phase and / or new operating parameters not determined in the configuration phase. Decide and
When the power transmitter is in the negotiation phase while the power receiver is in a power transmission phase in which power is transmitted from the power transmitter to the power receiver, the power receiver is a power signal. A power control error message indicating a control error between the measured value and the target value of the operating point used to execute the power control loop to control the power to be at the desired operating point is transmitted and said power. A transmitter is an inductive power transmission system that, in response to receiving the power control error message, discards the parameter changes introduced by the negotiation phase, ends the negotiation phase, and enters the power transmission phase. A power transmitter for an inductive power transmission system, wherein the power transmitter produces a wireless power signal for a power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system is the power transmitter based on modulation of the wireless power signal. The power transmitter supports bidirectional communication between the power receiver and the power receiver.
The means for generating the wireless power signal and
A means for receiving from the power receiver a signal strength packet that gives an index of the degree of coupling between the power transmitting coil of the power transmitter and the power receiving coil of the power receiver to start the configuration phase.
In the configuration phase, means for determining operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver, and
A means for receiving a request from the power receiver to enter a negotiation phase for negotiating operating parameters between the power transmitter and the power receiver.
A means for approving a request to enter the negotiation phase by sending an approval to the power receiver.
After submitting the approval, the means for entering the negotiation phase and
By performing the negotiation phase, including means for changing the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase and / or determining new operating parameters not determined in the configuration phase.
The measured value of the operating point used by the power receiver to execute a power control loop to control the power signal from the power receiver to a desired operating point when the power transmitter is in the negotiation phase. A power transmitter that proceeds to a power transmission phase in which power is transmitted from the power transmitter to the power receiver in response to receiving a power control error message indicating a control error between. A power transmitter for an inductive power transmission system, wherein the power transmitter produces a wireless power signal for a power receiver, and the inductive power transmission system is the power transmitter based on modulation of the wireless power signal. The power transmitter supports bidirectional communication between the power receiver and the power receiver.
The means for generating the wireless power signal and
A means for receiving from the power receiver a signal strength packet that gives an index of the degree of coupling between the power transmitting coil of the power transmitter and the power receiving coil of the power receiver to start the configuration phase.
In the configuration phase, means for determining operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver, and
A means for receiving a request from the power receiver to enter a negotiation phase for negotiating operating parameters between the power transmitter and the power receiver.
A means for approving a request to enter the negotiation phase by sending an approval to the power receiver.
After submitting the approval, the means for entering the negotiation phase and
By performing the negotiation phase, including means for changing the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase and / or determining new operating parameters not determined in the configuration phase.
When the power transmitter is in the negotiation phase while the power receiver is in a power transmission phase in which power is transmitted from the power transmitter to the power receiver, a power signal from the power receiver. Receives a power control error message indicating a control error between the measured value and the target value of the operating point used to execute the power control loop to control to be at the desired operating point, said power. A power transmitter that, upon receiving a control error message, discards the parameter changes introduced by the negotiation phase, exits the negotiation phase, and enters the power transmission phase. A power receiver of an inductive power transmission system that includes a power transmitter that produces a wireless power signal for the power receiver, wherein the inductive power transmission system is the power transmitter and the power based on the modulation of the wireless power signal. Supports bidirectional communication with the receiver, said power receiver
A means for initiating a configuration phase by transmitting to the power transmitter a signal strength packet that gives an index of coupling between the power transmitting coil of the power transmitter and the power receiving coil of the power receiver. ,
In the configuration phase, means for determining operating parameters for the power transmitter and the power receiver, and
A means for sending a request to enter a negotiation phase for negotiating operating parameters between the power transmitter and the power receiver.
With the means for entering the negotiation phase in response to the receipt of approval for the request from the power transmitter.
By performing the negotiation phase, including means for changing the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase and / or determining new operating parameters not determined in the configuration phase.
If the approval is not received within a predetermined response time, the power for which power is transmitted from the power transmitter to the power receiver, which is set up based on the operating parameters determined in the configuration phase. A power receiver that includes a means to enter the transmission phase. In the power transmission phase, power control indicating a control error between the measured value and the target value of the operating point used to execute the power control loop for controlling the power signal to be at the desired operating point. When an error message is transmitted to the power transmitter and the power control error message is received by the power transmitter in the negotiation phase, the power transmitter causes the power transmitter to discard the parameter changes introduced by the negotiation phase. The power receiver according to claim 5, wherein the negotiation phase is terminated and the power transmission phase is shifted to.

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